Indigenous Counter-Drone Grid Deployment by the Army
The Indian Army has expedited the procurement of a locally developed counter-drone system, incorporating both soft and hard kill capabilities, following incidents involving Pakistani drone incursions, notably during Operation Sindoor.
SAKSHAM System Development
- The Situational Awareness for Kinetic Soft and Hard Kill Assets Management (SAKSHAM) system was developed in collaboration with Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL).
- It operates over the secure Army Data Network (ADN), providing real-time integrated drone awareness to military formations.
Tactical Battlefield Space Expansion
Lessons from Operation Sindoor have led to this system's development to enhance airspace control:
- Covers up to 3,000 meters above the ground, termed as the new Tactical Battlefield Space.
- Expands beyond traditional ground roles into air littoral.
System Capabilities
- Designed to detect, track, identify, and neutralize hostile drones and unmanned aerial systems.
- Ensures complete airspace security for the Tactical Battlefield Space.
- Allows unrestricted movement for friendly aerial assets while neutralizing hostile threats.
Technological Integration
- Provides real-time situational awareness for counter-drone operations.
- Features an automated decision support system using AI tools for data integration.
- Synchronizes current and future counter-drone weapons and sensors.
- Feeds into the larger Sudharshan Chakra system.
Procurement and Deployment
- Approved under the Fast Track Procurement route.
- Rollout to all field formations is targeted within the next year.